Friends! It’s December and the holiday spirit is everywhere, except I’m not feeling it. I thought November would never ever end, but here we are on December 4th and the festivities are upon us. Somehow in the last 3 days we’ve managed to decorate a Christmas tree, put lights on the house, mail greeting cards, and listen to every Christmas album we own. A stack of our favorite holiday movies is on standby for the coming weekend, and the shopping is nearly done. It certainly seems like we are all ready for holiday joy and cheer, but I just don’t have my usual holiday mojo. I’ve gathered a few bits and pieces of inspiration to help me along, feel free to join me.
It’s really cold here, but not snowy and pretty, just cold and grey. So, I’m going to simmer up a lovely pot of this wassail to warm me up from the inside out–including my spirits!
Then I’m going to fantasize that I have a fancy holiday party to attend. I don’t, but a little day dreaming never hurt anyone. This collection of holiday party dresses all styled up with fabulous shiny accessories ought to brighten my day a bit. 
Finally, I think paying it forward is the ultimate way to find that holiday spirit in my heart. Our community puts up Angel Trees in local businesses, and we love to choose a tag and fill those wishes for a child in need. Check your local big box store for a similar opportunity. Maybe we’ll book a time to serve at our local soup kitchen, or donate our gently used winter gear to the local shelter. My family isn’t wealthy, but I know there are lots of opportunities to give back, to serve, and really live the spirit of the season.
Tell me, how do you pay it forward during the holidays? What else do you do to keep the holiday spirit bright?
Kimberly
...by day, making a home where the buffalo roam. By night, pretty much the same thing, punctuated by the occasional fantasies of sunny beaches, italian movies and sparkling lemonade.
